Texas A&M Students Innovate Closed-Loop Insulin Pump Technology

Biomedical engineering students from Texas A&M University have developed a groundbreaking closed-loop algorithm for implantable insulin pumps. This innovation aims to enhance diabetes care, particularly for patients managing Type 1 diabetes. While current insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors have greatly improved patient lives, many individuals still struggle to maintain stable blood glucose levels. The introduction of implantable insulin pumps presents a potential solution by delivering insulin directly to the liver, although existing systems often require manual adjustments.

As diabetes care becomes increasingly complex, the demand for greater automation grows. Patients, already burdened by the challenges of managing their condition, benefit from systems that reduce the mental load associated with manual calculations. The student team’s work is a significant step toward easing this burden.

Student Team Tackles Diabetes Management Challenges

Five biomedical engineering students, sponsored by Medtronic MiniMed, took on the challenge of improving insulin delivery systems. Their goal was to create a closed-loop algorithm that minimizes patient involvement while ensuring effective management of blood glucose levels.

The proposed system enables continuous communication between the insulin pump and glucose monitor. As team member Jacob Kimbrough, who lives with Type 1 diabetes, explained, “The pump calculates if your blood sugar is too high and if we need to lower it, then gives an insulin dose. If you’re low, the algorithm is going to back off on the basal rate to bring your blood sugar back up.” This dynamic interaction reduces the need for patients to manually input data, thereby simplifying daily management.

Kimbrough’s firsthand experience with diabetes provided valuable insights into the project. He noted, “This is what I deal with on a daily basis. I already know how this works, and I can see how to improve it.”

The initiative reflects a broader trend towards automated diabetes management, resembling functions of an artificial pancreas. The student team focused on testing decision pathways and understanding how automation could be integrated into an implanted device, rather than relying on external wearables.

Future Prospects and Collaboration

Medtronic MiniMed views this project as an important step forward in diabetes technology. Gary Dulak, senior director of new ventures at the company, praised the student team for their commitment and innovative approach. “The team brought remarkable energy, passion, and unique ideas, which were inspiring to us,” he stated. “Their commitment to Medtronic’s mission of meeting the patient where they are in their journey was evident in their dedication to the project.”

Although the algorithm is still in the prototype phase, Medtronic plans to build upon the foundation established by the students, with hopes of accelerating future development. The collaboration has provided a valuable real-world engineering experience for the students, while also laying the groundwork for advancements in automated diabetes care.

As the field of diabetes management evolves, the potential for reduced decision-making stress for patients increases. Greater automation could lead to fewer calculations and a more liberated lifestyle for those living with Type 1 diabetes, offering them a clearer path to managing their condition effectively.

This initiative exemplifies the critical intersection of education, innovation, and patient care, paving the way for future developments in medical technology.